My hardest recoiling rifle is currently a 9lb 7 RM shooting 160g. Don't mind practicing with it at the range up to about 40 rds. With the brake installed it's actually pretty enjoyable. Have fired 5 rounds from a 338 WM shooting 250 g partitions, didn't really care for it. Think 20-25 ft-lbs is about my limit to shoot accurately, practice enough to be proficient, and not develop a flinch.Knot reely.
Getting a 300 PRC, but don't plan to shoot it without the brake, at least at the range. I also find muzzle brakes annoying and wish silencers weren't prohibited in Canada. Hunted for pronghorn with a suppressed 6.5 CM in New Mexico last year - it was fantastic. Hardly any recoil, no muzzle blast.